There’s something wonderfully comforting about a simple plate of Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. This classic Italian dish, with its tantalizing aroma of garlic and the gentle heat of red pepper flakes, is a testament to how a few quality ingredients can create magic. Ideal for family dinners, it’s perfect for those moments when you want to bond over food, share stories, and indulge in a meal that’s both simple and sophisticated. Let’s dive into making this heartwarming dish that’s bound to become a family favorite!
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Skill Level: Easy
Ingredients
- 12 ounces (340g) spaghetti
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (more or less to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese, for serving
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic, stirring frequently, until it turns golden and fragrant (about 2 minutes). Be careful not to let it burn.
- Add the red pepper flakes to the skillet and stir for another 30 seconds.
- Toss the cooked spaghetti into the skillet, mixing well to coat the pasta with the garlic and oil mixture.
- If the pasta looks dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately, topping each plate with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Helpful Tips
For a milder dish, reduce the red pepper flakes. To make it even more special, add a handful of toasted breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy texture. Beginners can substitute packaged minced garlic for fresh cloves, though fresh will yield the best flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to refresh the pasta.
Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and crusty garlic bread. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or a light red will complement the flavors perfectly.
Bring a piece of Italy to your home with this delightful Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. We can’t wait to see your creations! Share your culinary masterpieces using #ZynahzRecipes or tag us on Instagram. Don’t forget to leave your feedback on our website at https://www.zynahz.com/. Subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious updates and follow us on social media to stay connected!
